Best Marine Grants in Virginia

Virginia marine and coastal research institutions can access funding through South Carolina Sea Grant for one- to two-year projects in areas like coastal conservation, resilience, fisheries, aquaculture, and marine biology. Only faculty from Consortium member institutions may serve as lead PIs, with typical awards of US $30,000 - US $80,000 per year.

Universities and research organizations studying marine conservation and coastal resilience in Virginia and other coastal or Great Lakes states can apply for National Sea Grant Law Center grants; awards US $75,000 for two-year legal and policy research projects. Funding supports analysis of laws and policies on sea level rise, flooding, storms, land use, and related environmental factors.

Organizations and agencies working on aquatic invasive species research, control, or education in Virginia and the broader Mid-Atlantic region may be eligible for this small grants program. Grants from Mid-Atlantic Panel on Aquatic Invasive Species help marine and freshwater conservation groups conduct AIS research, implement control and vector management, and develop K–Gray outreach materials.

Virginia nonprofits and government agencies working on water quality, Chesapeake Bay restoration, and related marine and freshwater conservation can access funding through Virginia Environmental Endowment. The Virginia Program supports projects improving rivers, fisheries, and watersheds, advancing environmental literacy, and addressing climate adaptation and emerging issues that strengthen aquatic and coastal ecosystems in Virginia.

Virginia marine and coastal organizations working on derelict fishing gear and marine debris removal can access funding through the Nationwide Fishing Trap, Removal, Assessment, and Prevention (TRAP) Program. Eligible projects support trap removal, impact assessment, prevention, and data sharing across U.S. waters, with awards ranging from US $50,000 - US $200,000 for 18‑month efforts.

Women divers pursuing journalism, graphic arts, photography, or videography degrees in the U.S. or Canada can receive $1,500 to support tuition, workshops, or internships that benefit the ocean environment or ocean community. Students in Virginia focused on marine or ocean conservation storytelling may be especially interested in this scholarship from Women Divers Hall of Fame.

Researchers and small research teams working on marine biology, oceanography, or ocean conservation projects can receive up to US $20,000 to use Global Fishing Watch data for ocean governance research, including in Virginia. Focused on advancing open ocean monitoring, Global Fishing Watch invites global applicants to improve core technologies and publicly share insights on human activity at sea.

Organizations and IEEE members planning marine or ocean engineering STEM outreach can receive up to US $5,000 to support events, programs, or resources in the U.S., including Virginia. Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers supports marine biology, oceanography, marine conservation, and STEM education projects that engage pre-university students with ocean-focused engineering topics.

Recent U.S.-based college graduates from historically marginalized groups interested in marine biology, ocean conservation, or clean energy can receive a US $1,000 professional development stipend through this two-year paid RAY Fellowship in Virginia and nationwide. Environmental Leadership Program places Fellows with host NGOs or agencies, providing mentorship, networking, and full-time entry-level environmental career experience.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and eligible public entities in southeastern Virginia can seek funding for youth environmental education programs that address waterways’ health and sea level rise. Focused on environmental stewardship, Hampton Roads Community Foundation invites Virginia groups to propose hands-on, outdoor watershed and marine-focused learning experiences for students in grades 3–12.

Students pursuing natural resource-related degrees, including marine and environmental fields, who reside in eligible northeastern Illinois counties can apply for the Soil and Water Stewardship Scholarship. Focused on higher education in areas like ecology, hydrology, and marine conservation, the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois supports future conservation professionals who may later work in places like Virginia’s marine environments.

Graduate students interested in marine biology, ocean conservation, and policy can access funding through a one-year paid Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship in Washington, D.C. Grants from Wisconsin Sea Grant help Virginia and other U.S. students gain hands-on experience with federal agencies and congressional offices shaping ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes resource policy.

Undergraduate students interested in marine, coastal, or estuarine systems can receive up to US $5,000 for a 10-week summer fellowship connecting research with extension, education, and communications in Virginia and beyond. New Hampshire Sea Grant’s Doyle Undergraduate Fellowship offers paid, mentored experience on projects in fisheries, aquaculture, coastal conservation, and marine workforce development.

Graduate students at North American universities conducting thesis research in marine conservation can receive US $15,000 to support ongoing research costs. Focused on marine biology, fisheries, and ocean conservation, the Steven Berkeley Marine Conservation Fellowship from American Fisheries Society may benefit Virginia-based students working on relevant marine research projects.

Graduate students and early career professionals in marine, coastal, or Great Lakes science and policy can apply for a one-year, paid policy fellowship in Washington, D.C., open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents. Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution’s Sea Grant program administers this national opportunity, which may benefit Virginia-based students interested in marine policy careers.

The AWWA Scholarship Program, specifically the Dr. Philip C. Singer Scholarship, honors a graduate student dedicated to advancing research in drinking water quality, environmental science, and public health. Established in 2020 by the American Water Works Association, this $3,000 scholarship aims to support innovative research that addresses pressing challenges in the water industry. By investing in future leaders, AWWA reinforces its commitment to ensuring safe and sustainable water for all.

The MMUF Dissertation Grant, funded by the Mellon Foundation, supports doctoral candidates who are alumni of the Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship. This grant aids scholars in completing their dissertations, ensuring diverse perspectives are represented in academia. With up to $30,000 for a 12-month period, the program encourages candidates to secure additional funding from their institutions. The initiative aims to bolster access to education and foster understanding among varied backgrounds, ultimately enhancing the academic landscape.

Marine and coastal research, education, and outreach organizations in Virginia can seek support for projects that advance atmospheric, climate, and ocean science, conservation, and resilience. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) supports innovative marine and coastal ecosystem work, with funding contingent on future federal appropriations and not guaranteed for any specific proposal.

U.S. 501(c)(3) organizations working on wildlife and marine conservation, policy, and advocacy can apply for Park Foundation’s animal welfare funding. Support focuses on endangered species, including whales, pollinators, wolves, and birds, habitat protection, indigenous wildlife management, and sanctuaries; Virginia marine and ocean conservation nonprofits may be eligible if their work has national significance.

The National Estuary Program Watersheds Grant Program, administered by Restore America’s Estuaries and supported by the EPA, funds competitive projects addressing critical threats to estuaries. Key priorities include habitat restoration, enhancing coastal resilience against extreme weather, managing nutrient impacts, and mitigating stormwater runoff. Established in 1987, the program aims to improve ecological integrity and water quality in 28 estuaries nationwide, providing essential funding and guidance to local initiatives.

The Roy A. Hunt Foundation's Environment Initiative Grants aim to support projects that enhance ecological health and sustainability. With an annual budget of approximately $3.4 million, the foundation prioritizes initiatives that promote responsible environmental practices, clean energy, and waste reduction. Grants between $25,000 and $75,000 are available for projects at various levels, focusing on innovative solutions that foster community partnerships and address root causes of environmental challenges.

The Doris Duke Foundation's Environment Program grants aim to foster a resilient environment through effective conservation efforts. By supporting U.S. nonprofit organizations, the foundation seeks to protect biodiversity, address climate change, and advance equity, particularly for marginalized communities. The program emphasizes land conservation, natural climate solutions, and inclusive practices, ensuring that conservation efforts benefit both wildlife and people. This initiative is pivotal for enhancing the health of ecosystems and communities across the United States.

The Fisheries Innovation Fund's Electronic Monitoring and Reporting Grant Program aims to enhance fisheries management through electronic technologies. Administered by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), this initiative will support U.S. fisheries in implementing electronic monitoring tools to improve data collection, accessibility, and management. The program is open to various fisheries, including commercial and recreational sectors, promoting sustainable practices and fostering stakeholder involvement for better fishery information systems.

Agencies, municipalities, NGOs, and angling groups in Virginia managing small urban fishing lakes can seek support to pilot water quality technologies that improve fish habitat and angling conditions. Friends of Reservoirs, through the TryMarine Grant, supports projects that reduce nutrient pollution, harmful algal blooms, and turbidity in 1–3 acre public fishing lakes.

The Morris & Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation focuses on improving the lives of underserved individuals in the DC area through grants in five key areas: Arts and Humanities, Community Services, Education, Environment, and Health & Wellness. The Foundation supports organizations that demonstrate cultural competence and systemic change, aiming for self-sufficiency and holistic well-being for all community members. Grants emphasize access to resources and equitable opportunities to foster meaningful community engagement.

The Bonnell Cove Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations in North America focused on safety at sea and marine environmental initiatives. With a funding limit of $10,000, it prioritizes well-defined projects that can be evaluated for impact. Proposals are accepted biannually, with deadlines on February 1 and September 1 for March and October reviews, respectively. The Foundation seeks innovative solutions for personal safety equipment and environmental stewardship, emphasizing projects that promote sustainable practices in marine operations.

The Lubrizol Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations that align with community investment priorities and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on quality education, health, and sustainable communities. Established in 1952, the foundation emphasizes support for initiatives in Cleveland, Ohio, and Houston, Texas. Grant applications are evaluated based on alignment with Lubrizol's investment pillars, with a commitment to fostering social impact and community well-being through financial support.